Phewa

Phewa, commonly known as Phewa Tal or Phewa Lake, is the second largest freshwater lake in Nepal. It is located in the Pokhara Valley of Gandaki Province, at an elevation of roughly 800 meters above sea level. The lake extends along the valley floor and is fed by monsoon rains, small streams, and groundwater, with a channel at the southern end that regulates water levels.

A notable feature is an island near the lake’s center that hosts the Barahi Temple, a Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Barahi. The temple and the surrounding waterscape give the lake its distinctive character and are a popular destination for visitors. The lake supports a variety of aquatic life and hosts resident and migratory birds along its shores and in the surrounding vegetation.

Phewa Lake is a major tourist destination in Pokhara, renowned for boating and paddle activities. Visitors commonly take boat trips to the island temple, with scenic views of the Himalaya ranges, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri foothills, visible from the lake on clear days. The site serves as a backdrop for photography and serves as a starting point for nearby trekking routes and excursions in the Pokhara area.

Environmental pressures from development and tourism have prompted conservation and management efforts aimed at maintaining water quality and controlling sedimentation. The lake remains integral to Pokhara’s identity, contributing to local recreation, culture, and the regional economy. Access is straightforward from Pokhara, with regular boat services and lakeside paths connecting visitors to the lake’s attractions.